South Carolina Sheriff, E. J. Melvin, Arrested in Drug Sting, Charged with Drug Distribution

Lee County Sheriff E. J. Melvin, seven others, arrested and charged with drug distribution and other charges.

 Lee County (SC) Sheriff E. J. Melvin, 47, was arrested among seven people in a drug sting Saturday and charged with drug distribution, acting U.S. Attorney Kevin McDonald said. Melvin and the others were charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of powder cocaine and 50 grams or more of crack cocaine, authorities said.

It would seem that Melvin, who has been sheriff since 2001, has been on the radar of federal authorities for some time, since 2006, according to the Charlotte Observer. Also arrested were Brenda LaShawn Ellerby, Antonio Holloman, Larry Williams, Eric Andre Hickman, Anthony Lee Williams and Sheldon Maurice Bradley, all of Bishopville, SC.

Melvin and his posse are scheduled to appear in federal court in Columbia Monday, McDonald said. If convicted, Melvin and the other eight people arrested could face at least 10 years in prison and up to $4 million in fines. This is a real disgrace. The sheriff, who is supposed to uphold the law and protect the community, is doing the opposite. He's breaking the law. What a dirtbag.